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Since ages, humans have tapped into nature’s abundant resources to nurture their children and help them stay healthy.

Aromatherapy is a modern, yet simple extension of this concept as it captures nature’s goodness and healing power in tiny bottles.

Aromatherapy for babies is gaining popularity because it is completely non-invasive, does not involve subjecting your little one to harsh medicines and the best of all – your baby will love the pleasant and soothing fragrances.

When it comes to using essential oils for babies, many parents have concerns regarding safety and side effects of aromatherapy. As a professional aromatherapist with 17 years of experience and a mother of a very healthy teenager, I can confidently vouch for the safety of aromatherapy for babies. Ever since my son was born, I have used only essential oils to handle common conditions that kids encounter. I am proud to say that in the fifteen years of his life, my son hasn’t had any condition that didn’t resolve with essential oils.

My sister had a beautiful baby and I have been very fortunate to take care of him every Saturday. It is an absolute joy to have him at our home on weekends, watch him grow, learn and in turn, learn a little from him. I use this bonding time to treat my nephew to the benefits of essential oils, just as I did with my son. My personal experiences have inspired me to write this article and share useful tips not only to address common ailments, but to help parents enhance their babies’ general wellbeing with the use of nature’s essential oils.

Aromatherapy for Restful Sleep

Most new parents would give their eyes and teeth for something that would help their baby sleep soundly so that they can grab a few moments of peace for themselves. I gave my sister a special blend of Lavender, Mandarin, Marjoram and Palo Santo – she just puts a couple of drops on a cotton pad and places it on one corner of my nephew’s bed, under the sheets. The baby has been sleeping through the night since he was eight weeks old!

Aromatherapy for Boosting Immunity

Some essential oils like Lavender and Tea Tree are believed to stimulate the production of T-cells (immune cells) and strengthen the body’s immune system. Mix 1 drop of Lavender essential oils with 1 tablespoon of unscented shower gel and add it to bath water. This recipe, when used on a weekly basis, will help your child ward off disease-causing organisms as he learns to explore the world around him.

Aromatherapy Baths for Babies

When you do not have the time for an elaborate massage, a few drops of essential oils added to your baby’s bath water will do just fine. Here’s how you can make your baby’s bathing ritual more pleasant and enriching:
Fill the bath with warm water and add the chosen oil or blend. Do not use more than 2 drops of essential oils for babies under the age of 2 years.
To make the oils disperse adequately in water, always mix them first with 1 tablespoon salt or a fragrance-free shampoo/ body wash. Baths should be for babies 6 months or older